A Bartender Wouldn’t Serve Woman With Neuromuscular Disorder — “He Didn’t Care to Understand”

A woman with a rare neuromuscular disease called Friedreich’s ataxia faced discrimination when a bartender refused to serve her at a historic town pub in Charleston, S.C. Despite her brave explanation of her condition, the bartender remained unsympathetic. This incident left her feeling misunderstood and insecure about her health condition. As a result, she took to TikTok to share her story and raise awareness about disabilities and rare diseases.

The Rare Neuromuscular Disorder: Friedreich’s Ataxia

Friedreich’s ataxia is a rare, inherited, and degenerative disease that affects the spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and the brain. Individuals with this condition experience awkward movements due to a loss of sensation. According to Johns Hopkins, it is indeed a rare disorder that can significantly impact a person’s ability to move and function normally.

Discrimination at the Pub

During her visit to Charleston, the TikTok creator, @kiersten.riggs, sought rest after a long walk in a pub. However, when she attempted to order a beverage, the bartender refused to serve her. He claimed to have watched her stumble back from the bathroom and decided not to serve her, despite her being completely sober. She tried to explain her situation and even showed her medical diagnosis, but the bartender remained adamant in his decision, leaving her feeling emotionally distraught. This incident shed light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in public spaces.

Turning Negativity into Positive Awareness

Kiersten Riggs bravely shared her experience on TikTok, aiming to turn her negative encounter into a positive message for others. She emphasized the importance of raising disability awareness and encouraged individuals with disabilities and insecurities to share their stories. Kiersten’s vulnerability and resilience sparked a conversation and brought attention to the need for greater understanding and empathy towards people facing similar challenges.

Support and Empathy

Following her TikTok post, Kiersten received overwhelming support from her audience, with many sharing their own stories and words of encouragement. This outpouring of empathy highlighted the widespread impact of her message and the prevalence of discrimination faced by individuals with disabilities. It also underscored the importance of building a supportive community for those navigating similar experiences.

Seeking Understanding and Connection

While the incident at the pub left Kiersten feeling misunderstood and vulnerable, her decision to share her story exemplifies her desire for understanding and connection. Instead of seeking retribution, she sought to raise awareness and foster empathy. By advocating for openness and dialogue, she offered a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and compassion in society.

Conclusion

Kiersten Riggs’ courageous stance in the face of discrimination sheds light on the importance of empathy, understanding, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. Her willingness to share her story not only brought attention to the challenges faced by those with rare diseases but also fostered a sense of community and support. By amplifying her voice, Kiersten sparked a meaningful conversation and inspired others to embrace their vulnerabilities and seek connection, ultimately paving the way for greater inclusivity and acceptance.